Leica IIIa (1935–1938)
A 35mm screw-mount rangefinder camera introduced in 1935 as Leica's top-of-the-line model. It has a 1/1000 sec shutter speed and a high-magnification rangefinder.
Overview
The Leica IIIa was introduced in 1935 as the flagship of Leica's rangefinder lineup. It is also called the Leica G, or LEICA AUTOFOCAL CAMERA MODEL G. Leitz built it. It replaced the earlier Model III and was itself replaced in late 1938. Leitz positioned it as the new top-of-the-line Leica, with significant improvements over its predecessors. It is a 35mm screw-mount rangefinder camera, designed for precision and reliability in professional and advanced amateur photography. One example carries serial number 183815.
Specifications
| Type | screw mount rangefinder camera |
| Film Format | 35mm |
| Years Produced | 1935–1938 |
| Shutter | adds 1/1000 sec speed |
| Rangefinder | superimposed, 1.5x magnification |
Market
In 2014, a used Leica IIIa body was valued at about $250. An original collapsible LEICA SUMMAR 5cm f/2 lens was priced around $175.
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